clipped from www.petorphans.org

How to Find a Trainer

Finding a trainer for your dog is vitally important to your dog's happy acclimation to your household and development as a pet. Keep in mind when researching trainers that there is no certification or licensing process of any kind to be a dog trainer. Therefore, the educational level and background of each trainer will vary widely. Practically anyone can call themselves a dog trainer or behaviorist, but this does not mean they are capable of helping you train your dog. If a trainer makes exaggerated claims, or uses sales pitches that sound like something from a used car salesman or guarantees, walk away! Moreover, there are a variety of different philosophical approaches to dog training, from correction-based training to positive reinforcement training to clicker training to pure positive. When interviewing a trainer, be sure to ask them what their methods are and what their approach to dog behavior and learning is.